Nearly 50 musical acts from across northwestern Ontario have taken part in CBC's Searchlight competition — and now, just 20 remain.

Vote for your favourite musician and you could help a northwestern Ontario singer/songwriter or band earn the title of Canada's best new artist. CBC

The winning musician or band will compete against groups from all over the country for cash and prizes.

By voting, you could help a northwestern Ontario singer/songwriter or band win the title of Canada's best new artist — along with $20,000 in gear from Yamaha, an opening slot on a high-profile music showcase and a recording session with CBC Music.

In round one of the competition there were 9,935 votes.

Here's a list of the top-20 contestants from the northwest — as voted by you.